The Nigeria Union of Journalists (NUJ) has asked the Minister of the Federal Capital Territory, Nyesom Wike, to withdraw a controversial remark and publicly apologize to TV journalist Seun Okinbaloye.
NUJ President, Alhassan Yahya Abdullahi, said the union found Wike’s comment troubling. The minister remarked during a recent media chat while reacting to Okinbaloye’s analysis on a television programme.
Reports by Daily Trust and Punch quoted Wike as saying, “If there was any way to break the screen, I would have shot him.”
Wike later clarified that he did not mean the statement literally. However, the NUJ said the comment still raises concerns about how public officials engage with the media.
The union said it initially held back its response, expecting Wike to retract the statement. It expressed disappointment that he has not done so.
According to the NUJ, statements that appear threatening—even as jokes—can put journalists at risk. It warned that such remarks may encourage hostility toward media professionals.
The union also noted that journalists in Nigeria already face serious safety challenges. Reports by the Committee to Protect Journalists continue to highlight these risks.
The development reflects ongoing tension between political office holders and the media. It also reinforces calls for responsible public communication and respect for press freedom.
